HALITOSIS 101

There it is, right under your nose, and you may not even be aware…you have bad breath.

Well, you’re not alone.

Many people suffer unknowingly from halitosis, an all too common embarrassing condition.

Much of the time, bad breath comes from gases produced by bacteria which accumulate in the mouth, on the teeth, gums and tongue. These gases contain sulfur which causes their odor.

The obvious way to treat bad breath is to brush and floss. Using a tongue scraper is also a good way to remove bacteria from the back of your tongue.

Here are some things to think about as you battle to win your fight against halitosis:

Have you seen your dentist lately?
A good dental check-up may reveal plaque and dental decay. Plaque can break down your teeth, causing bad breath. Cavities can also be smelly culprits.

Could it be your nose?
Sinus infections or the presence of bacteria in your nose and sinus cavities cause smelly secretions from your nasal passages – which may be a cause of bad breath. Using a saline nasal wash can help, but if this problem persists, you may want to see an ear, nose and throat specialist.

Could it be tonsil stones?
You may have never heard of tonsil stones or tonsilloliths, globs of lymph tissue and bacteria that reside in the back of the throat. They are filled with crevices where bacteria accumulates. If enough bacteria get caught, these smelly tonsilloliths can definitely contribute to halitosis. Happily, they can usually be removed with a WaterPik.

Could it be your diet?
Garlic and onions contain compounds that are taken into the blood cells and expelled through the lungs. So, your breath actually smells, not just your mouth.

Could it be your stomach?
If none of the above is the cause of your bad breath, or if it is a persistent problem, see your doctor. In some cases, stomach problems, such as acid reflux, can cause bad breath.

Bad breath can have a definite impact on your personal relationships! Call us today and let us help you get a handle on your bad breath!